
Somanathapura Keshava Temple
Somanathapura, Karnataka, India
The 1268 triple-shrined jewel of Hoysala art — star-shaped, lathe-pillared and carved to the last inch — now a UNESCO World Heritage 'Sacred Ensemble'.
Why visit: The most complete Hoysala temple of all, an hour from Mysuru.
History: Built by commander Somanatha under King Narasimha III; UNESCO-listed with Belur and Halebidu in 2023.
- ›Trikuta shrines
- ›Frieze bands
- ›Star-plan pradakshina
- ›Cauvery ghats nearby
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Best time
Oct–Mar
Entry fee
₹25–300
Est. budget
₹200–500
Duration
2–3 hrs
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